What Local Fees Will I Need to Pay On-Site?

What Local Fees Will I Need to Pay On-Site?

You’ll need to pay several local fees on-site, including a Special Study Permit (₱11,040), a weekly management fee (₱500/week), and a refundable security deposit (₱4,500).
Additional costs like visa extensions and ACR I-Cards may apply if you stay longer than 30 or 59 days. Some students also choose optional services like airport pickup ($30).

Now let’s take a closer look at what each of these fees covers—and how to prepare for them before you arrive in Cebu.

Mandatory Local Fees (All Students)

Special Study Permit (SSP): ₱11,040

The SSP is a legal requirement for all foreign nationals studying in the Philippines for less than 6 months. It is issued by the Bureau of Immigration and allows students to enroll in English language schools like 3D ACADEMY.

You cannot apply for this on your own—it must be processed through the school. The fee includes government charges and processing assistance. Payment is due during your first week of classes.

Management Fee: ₱500 per week

This weekly fee covers operational costs such as electricity, water, campus maintenance, and administrative services. It is standard in most English schools in the Philippines.

For example:

• 1-week stay = ₱500

• 4-week stay = ₱2,000

• 8-week stay = ₱4,000

This is not included in your upfront tuition payment, so please be ready to pay in cash upon arrival.

Security Deposit: ₱4,500 (for up to 19 weeks)

A refundable deposit is collected at the beginning of your stay. It acts as insurance for any damages to the room or unpaid bills.

• If you stay 20 weeks or longer, the deposit increases to ₱9,000.

• At the end of your course, this amount will be returned to you—assuming no issues.

Optional Local Services

Airport Pickup: $30 (One Way)

While this service is optional, most students—especially first-time visitors—choose to book it. A 3D ACADEMY driver or staff member will meet you at Mactan-Cebu International Airport and bring you safely to your dormitory.

Tip: This is especially recommended for students arriving late at night or on weekends.

Additional Fees for Longer Stays

Depending on how long you plan to stay, other government-related fees may apply.

Tourist Visa Extensions (Over 30 Days)

When you arrive in the Philippines, you automatically get a 30-day tourist visa. If your program is longer than this, you’ll need to extend your visa:

• First Extension (29 days): Approx. ₱4,130

• Second Extension (30 days): Approx. ₱4,400

• Further extensions are needed if you stay more than 2 months, and the cost increases gradually.

3D ACADEMY assists students with the extension process. You’ll need to hand in your passport for a few days during processing.

ACR I-Card (Alien Certificate of Registration): ₱3,500 (Required after 59 days)

If you stay longer than 59 days, you’ll also need to apply for an ACR I-Card, which serves as your official ID as a foreign student in the Philippines.

This is also required by immigration and processed with school support.

Sample Budget for a 4-Week Stay

Let’s say you’ve enrolled in a 4-week ESL course with a single room. Your costs would typically break down as follows:

Upfront (Paid in Advance):

• Registration: $100

• Tuition + Accommodation (1-week): $434 / (4-week): $1,736

• Total: $1,836

Local Fees (Pay on Arrival):

• SSP: ₱11,040

• Management Fee: ₱2,000

• Security Deposit: ₱4,500

• Airport Pickup (optional): $30

• Visa Extension: ₱4,130 (only if staying over 30 days)

Estimated local payment in pesos: ₱17,540–₱22,000 depending on duration and visa status.

Payment Instructions

• All local fees are to be paid in cash (Philippine pesos) upon arrival.

• The school does not accept credit cards or foreign currency for these charges.

• Please exchange your money at the airport or at a local money changer before school check-in.

Final Tips for Students

1. Bring Enough Cash

We strongly advise bringing at least ₱20,000–₱25,000 in cash for your first week. This will cover your local fees, transportation, food outside the dorm, and any personal items you may want to buy.

2. Use a Backup Payment Method

Consider bringing an international debit or credit card as a backup. While you can withdraw cash from ATMs in Cebu, the daily limit is often ₱10,000–₱15,000, and transaction fees may apply.

3. Keep Receipts and Ask Questions

Always request a receipt for each payment made and don’t hesitate to ask the school staff if you’re unsure about any fees.

How Much Pocket Money Do I Need for a 1-Month Stay?

For a typical 4-week stay in Cebu, we recommend bringing around ₱20,000–₱25,000 in pocket money (roughly $350–$450 USD). This amount should cover your daily essentials and personal expenses, such as:

• Local transportation (Jeepney, Grab rides)

• Snacks and drinks outside of school meals

• Weekend activities or day trips

• Personal toiletries or groceries

• SIM card or mobile data plan

Of course, your actual spending will depend on your lifestyle. Some students manage with less, while others spend more if they frequently eat out, shop, or go on tours.

Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to prepare some cash in Philippine pesos before departure, and also bring an international debit card as a backup. ATMs are widely available in Cebu, but some charge extra fees.

By preparing adequately, you can focus on your studies and experiences instead of worrying about your finances. Planning ahead makes all the difference!

✅ Summary｜Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Study Abroad Experience

Studying at 3D ACADEMY offers exceptional value, but understanding the full cost breakdown is key to a successful and stress-free experience. Your initial payment—which includes registration, tuition, accommodation, and meals—covers most of what you need for day-to-day life at the school. You’ll enjoy three meals a day, regular laundry and cleaning services, and a comfortable room with Wi-Fi included.

However, there are mandatory local fees that must be paid on-site in cash (Philippine pesos) after your arrival. These include the SSP (Special Study Permit), school management fees, a refundable deposit, and in some cases, VISA extension fees and the ACR I-Card. These charges are required by the Philippine government or used for maintaining facilities and services.

In addition, students are encouraged to bring ₱20,000–₱25,000 (roughly $350–$450) in pocket money to cover personal expenses such as transportation, mobile SIM cards, weekend activities, and shopping. Bringing cash in advance and having an international debit card as backup is highly recommended.

By preparing ahead and understanding exactly what is and isn’t covered, you can fully focus on learning English and enjoying life in Cebu without unnecessary financial worries. Whether you’re coming for one week or one month, knowing the budget structure puts you in control.

If you’re planning a longer stay, be sure to contact us—we may be able to offer special promotions or discounts depending on the season and availability.

Got questions? Our team is always happy to assist. Reach out anytime—we’re here to help make your study abroad journey smooth, rewarding, and unforgettable.